You're faced with impromptu speaking at work. How can you conquer stage fright with ease?

Depending on how impromptu it is, take a moment if you can to write down (or ask yourself in your head) 3-5 points on the topic. Use the "who-what-where-why-how?" formula - Who is impacted or affected; What is really important about this to know; Where is this relevant in the community/company; Why is it important audience knows this now; and How does it affect them? Focusing on facts / points to make can ease your stage fright. You'll do great! :)

This is where you can extract the full potential of ice-breakers. An ice-breaker does exactly that, it dissipates the invisible yet evident tension between you and your audience by establishing rapport- in a short timespan. This ice-breaker can be an activity you initiate with the audience or an opening remark that loosens the tension. An example of opening remarks could be "Does anyone else in the room feel like a melting ice cream? The aircon is not helping to quell this heat." You will immediately get audience engagement before you even start your presentation but, with that, you've established yourself as a relatable figure.

Use deep breathing exercises to calm your nerves and reduce anxiety before speaking. This helps center your focus and steady your voice. Start by asking a question or sharing a relatable anecdote. Engaging your audience early can ease your nerves and make the interaction more conversational. Spend a few moments visualizing a successful presentation. Imagine yourself speaking confidently and receiving positive reactions from the audience. Shift your attention from how you’re perceived to the value of the information you’re sharing. This helps reduce self-consciousness.

Remember your audience wants you to succeed. Give a big grin and admit you’re feeling nervous - it’s a great way of releasing the tension. They’ve all been there themselves. Then look for the person nodding and smiling and speak to them.